Positive drug tests at HMP Liverpool are the highest in England and Wales.
A spot inspection by the Chief Inspector of Prisons found that 46% of random mandatory drug testing in Walton came back higher than any reception prison.
That figure was attributed in part to an increase in drone activity at the Category B facility, making access to illicit substances and other contraband easier for inmates.
The inspection, which took place for 10 days in August, also found living conditions within the prison to be ‘poor’ while staff absence levels were ‘continuously high’.
The report also noted that incidents of self-harm were worryingly high while support for vulnerable prisoners was deemed to be insufficient.
It also noted that a significant number of inmates were not engaged in work or education, undermining rehabilitation efforts.
Although HMP Liverpool is technically fully staffed, high sickness rates and anxiety among overseas staff linked to visa uncertainties had caused operational instability.
Inspectors highlighted that staff morale was low and turnover remained high.
The report did acknowledge some positive developments including that medical care was generally well-managed, with improvements in access and delivery.
Visitor services were also praised for a structured and compassionate approach.
However chief inspector Charlie Taylor has warned that the prison risks falling into further decline without stronger oversight and significant investment.
“There will need to be support from the prison service to make sure the building work is completed and a much more comprehensive focus on reducing the impact of drone incursion,” he concluded.
“The prison must focus more on getting prisoners into purposeful activity every day; there are too many men at Liverpool lying on their beds watching daytime television and taking drugs to pass the time.”